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Dear Pete

We have had springer spaniels in the past, but I am unable to prevent our current six-month-old from pulling on the lead. She adopts a sideways pull away from us and will not be persuaded otherwise! Any ideas?

RP, Cambridgeshire

Dear RP

Dogs don’t automatically know how to walk properly on a leash: they need to be taught. Your pup has accidentally learned that pulling sideways is a “good” way of walking on a leash. You need to start again at the beginning, specifically teaching her to walk forwards in a relaxed way.

The use of praise and extra tasty treats will help, as well as a body harness that helps to guide her. Objective advice from a good dog trainer observing your technique...

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